The present invention provides pipeline pigs for maintenance of a pipeline, the pig including two adjacent ovular sections generally symmetrically disposed about a vertical axis, a polymeric band disposed along the vertical axis, the band being adapted to reduce a cross section of the pig along the axis and a longitudinal inner support member disposed centrally along the ovular sections and perpendicularly to the vertical axis.

An improved apparatus and methodologies of use for cleaning debris and contaminants from an interior surface or sidewall of a fluid-carrying conduit, such as a pipeline, are provided. More particularly, an apparatus and methodologies of use are provided, wherein the apparatus or ‘pipeline pig’ operates bi-directionally and comprises counter-rotating cleaning elements that are operative to enhance removal of debris and contaminants from the pipeline.

Systems and methods for cleaning a photobioreactor apparatus are described. Cleaning devices are described that include flexible members coupled to a propulsion member. The cleaning devices may be moved through tubes of the photobioreactor apparatus using the propulsion member. As the cleaning devices move, the flexible members may make contact with walls of the tubes, thereby cleaning the walls of the tubes. Cleaning devices are also contemplated that include particles with some rigidity that intermix with the fluid inside the tubes and clean the walls of the tubes as the particles contact the walls.

A pipeline pig (5) for cleaning pipelines (6) and/or for recovering products from a pipeline is disclosed. The pipeline pig (5) comprises at least one radiofrequency identification tag (4a, 4b) as a means for identification and for the sending, receiving and storing of data. The pipeline pig (5) may be used in pipeline systems used for the production of sterile food or pharmaceutical products.

An improved apparatus and methodologies of use for cleaning debris and contaminants from an interior surface or sidewall of a fluid-carrying conduit, such as a pipeline, are provided. More particularly, an apparatus and methodologies of use are provided, wherein the apparatus or pipeline pig operates bi-directionally and comprises counter-rotating cleaning elements that are operative to enhance removal of debris and contaminants from the pipeline.